Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Homily – 04-30-2008 – Sixth Week of Easter Wednesday

Today Paul delivers a very powerful message to the Athenians. He congratulates them in being a "religious people" but makes it very clear to them that idol worship in pagan temples is not the way to go. You worship an "Unknown God" – but I will tell you who this "unknown" is. He is the God who made the world and all that is in it – and he does not dwell in sanctuaries made by human hands because it is he who gives everyone life and breath and everything. He made from one the whole human race. He fixed the ordered seasons and the boundaries of their regions, so that people might seek God, even perhaps grope for him and find him, though he is not very far from any of us.

God has overlooked our ignorance and now demands that all people repent because he has established a day in which he will judge the world with justice through a man he has appointed, and confirmed in his task by raising him from the dead.

Paul is a great teacher and preacher – but he knows that his true source is Jesus – who is truth-in-the-flesh. But in the gospel passage we see that Jesus knows how to communicate his truth – in small, palatable amounts. He does not want to overpower us. And with the coming of the Spirit in just a short while – the gentle Wisdom of God itself will be communicated in a very forceful but gentle way! "I will ask the Father and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always."

We thank God that he has provided truth for us! We thank Jesus for being that truth! We thank the Spirit for communicating that truth!

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Homily – 04-29-2008 – St. Catherine of Siena

Today we celebrate the feast of an outstanding Doctor of the Church: Catherine of Siena. Catherine was but a Dominican tertiary – a layperson who had immense influence on the Church of the 14th century. Apparently the Church then had many abuses occurring in it – as it does in any age. And at this time God the Father chose Catherine to be the one to stand and let the light of her simple faith and intuitive knowledge of matters of faith guide a great many religious leaders of her time – from the pope to the Dominican superiors to the laity.

Catherine was a simple person with next to no formal education, yet as Jesus says in the gospel passage – it was to the childlike – it was to her that the secrets of the mysteries of the kingdom have been revealed. And she passed that information along in person to those who were meant to hear it, and in writing for those who were meant to read it. Her most famous work is The Dialogue – dictated in 1377. This is an amazing spiritual masterpiece of several hundred pages which records a dialogue that Catherine has with God the Father. It is in question and answer format.

It is an incredible insight into the reality of God as loving Father – as one who wants so very much for all of his children to make it safely home to him. And so he sent a "bridge" so that we might cross the chasm of deadly earthly concerns – the bridge being the life, teaching and death of his Son – Jesus. He urges us to get on the bridge and to stay on it – by unswerving obedience to the commandments until we are safely across and begin to enjoy the full benefits of the life merited by the death and resurrection of Jesus – in the Kingdom!

There is no way that Catherine could have come up with this mystical theology of her own accord. It was the Holy Spirit pouring through her that produced the work. And for being a simple holy secretary – Catherine was honored by the Church in being named a Doctor in 1970.

The first reading, today, no doubt, summarizes Catherine's own sentiments. She knew that she was a sinner. She knew that she stood in constant need of Christ's mercy and forgiveness. And she knew that the light and life and forgiveness of Jesus was always available to her. Her own light would be as bright as her humility and obedience to all of Jesus' commands – and to the joy of the Holy Spirit that she allowed to radiate from her.

O bless the Lord my soul! And thank you God for providing such useful and helpful information through such amazing and faith-filled role model as St. Catherine of Siena!


 


 

Monday, April 28, 2008

Homily – 04-28-2008 – St. Peter Chanel

Saint Peter Chanel was born in the town of Cuet in France in 1803. After ordination to the priesthood, he was engaged in pastoral work for a few years. He then joined the Marists and journeyed to Oceania to preach the Gospel. Despite many hardships he converted some of the natives to the faith. Out of hatred for the faith, a band of native warriors killed him in 1841 on the island of Futuna.

In the gospel passage we see Jesus calling the first disciples. The call was clear, the response was immediate and generous. Such has been the call to religious vocation throughout the centuries. Peter Chanel heard the call and immediately responded with a generous dedication of his life to Christ and his missionary work to bring the gospel to the ends of the earth.

The message that Peter brought to the island natives of Oceania was of the Cross of Christ – which involved the contradictory idea that greatness lies in smallness, significance lies in insignificance, power lies in weakness, life lies in death. And Peter was called upon to practice what he preached by falling victim to the misunderstanding, the apprehensions, the fears and the prejudices of the pagan natives of the South Sea Islands. He fearlessly met the challenge. He did not shrink from the task any more than Jesus did from his – and he was rewarded with the crown of martyrdom: which is perfect configuration to the self-sacrificial redeeming life of Christ.

We thank God this day for the life and ministry of St. Peter Chanel and we congratulate and pray for the Marist Order throughout the world that they may continue to be inspired by the heroic life and death of their protomartyr.

Go out to all the world and tell the Good News!

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Homily – 04-27-2008 – Sixth Sunday of Easter

The readings of the Easter Season begin now to make a shift to the upcoming two special feasts that will occur in the next two weeks: the feast of the Ascension this coming Thursday, and the Feast of Pentecost, two weeks from today. Jesus is busy preparing his Apostles to take over for him when he leaves us not as orphans – but to prepare a place for us – and to be our Advocate/Intercessor always with the Father. He also assures us that he himself would still be with us in the Church that would be launched into the deep of the world on the day that the Holy Spirit would fall on the Apostles and a crowd of three thousand.

Jesus tells us in the gospel passage that a key to accessing all that God wants to give us is obedience to his commandments. "If you love me you will keep my commandments!" He goes on further and tells them that for the faithful, obedient flock, a very special experience of his presence and his Father's presence would be in store for them until the end of time. It would be by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (in their souls) that would be transmitted by the prayer and action of the apostles, their successors and priest helpers. Baptism and Confirmation would qualify the candidate for an amazing newness of life that was just not there before the waters are poured, the oil is applied and hands are imposed.

While this is going on, Jesus himself would also be in heaven preparing rooms for us – preparing special places for each of us. He knows us! He knows what we like! He knows how to plan for our arrival! And, for all of the prayers that we offer to him for help and guidance as we make our way to him and his Father – he stands at the Father's right hand to intercede for us! Imagine that! Jesus, right next to God the Father praying for us!

And it is when we pray rightly that we can have every confidence that we will be heard: and the proper prayer is very simple: Jesus prayed it first in the Garden of Gethsemane – he prayed it by his death on the Cross – he prayed it by his glorious Resurrection: THY WILL BE DONE, FATHER! by the working of the Holy Spirit, THY-WILL-BE-DONE! When we pray that God's will be done in and through us we cannot not be heard!

And so this day let us sanctify Christ as Lord in our hearts (as we heard in the second reading) – and always be ready to give a simple, direct uplifting answer to any who question why we have hope, why we have joy, why we have peace in our life! "It's the LORD!" It's the Lord Jesus whom we have given permission to take control of our lives! How could one not have hope and joy and peace when all is in God's hands, and all is well!

Let all the earth cry out to God with joy!

Saturday, April 26, 2008

Homily – 04-26-2008 – Fifth Week of Easter Saturday

In our readings today we see the reality of what happens when the message of the gospel is proclaimed – especially as it occurred at the time of Jesus, and as it still occurs today.

Those who live in darkness do not want the light to come near them, those whose deeds are evil do not want to be in the presence of goodness, those who chose lives of selfish self-centeredness do not want to be reminded of another way: a way of selfless self-giving!

And so Jesus tells his Apostles that they must be prepared for the world's hatred. They will not be treated any better than he was treated. Then he tells them to remain close to one another and to him and his Father – and they will be able to endure anything that comes their way – by the working of the Holy Spirit within them.

In the first reading we see how this indeed comes to pass. Paul, Barnabas and now Timothy with them deliver the amazing good news of salvation to the Gentiles – and they run up against opposition all the way. But being "led by the Holy Spirit" – they avoid certain areas and concentrate on other ones – where they would at least be received, welcomed and heard.

This same dynamic of being "led by the Spirit" – if trusted and acted upon – can always produce the very best results. Today we simply call it "being inspired" to do this or that! But if we are men and women of faith - and we are baptized and confirmed in that faith – then the inspiration does indeed come from the Holy Spirit himself. And we are truly led away from some situations, and towards others – and though it may seem peculiar to the "world" at large which observes us – it is always the safest and most sure way to go. The Spirit who is leading us – will never let us down. Jesus himself has prayed for this and is praying for our protection and effectiveness even now.

May we proclaim the joy, hope and peace of the Risen Christ to all we meet today – to all to whom we are led by the working of the Holy Spirit!

Friday, April 25, 2008

Homily - -4-25-2008 – St. Mark, Evangelist

Today we celebrate the feast of St. Mark the Evangelist. Mark was both a companion of St. Peter and St. Paul. It was from listening to and watching and taking in what St. Peter had to do and say, that Mark wrote down what was to become the First Gospel. It is the briefest of the four gospels – and is known for the "Markan Secret" – how after merely outlining a limited version of facts about Jesus he emphasizes how Jesus did not want his divinity known – until the time was right. In Mark's Gospel Jesus often tells the disciples "not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah" until a later time.

Mark accompanied Paul to Rome – later on – and comforted him when he was imprisoned.

In the first reading today we hear from Mark's mentor, St. Peter, that the Christian ought to clothe himself with humility in dealing with others – so that God may exalt him in due time. He urges the Christian to be sober and vigilant because the devil really and truly is roaming the world like a lion looking for his dinner. We must resist the devil steadfast in our faith - constantly calling upon that faith so that the grace and peace and protection of Christ might fill us at all times. He reminds them that they must suffer in this world for a little while so to attain joy and blessedness later on that will last forever!

In the gospel passage we see Jesus just before his ascension appearing to the Eleven and telling them to go into the whole world to proclaim the good news to every creature. Signs and wonders would accompany them, and everyone would be given the opportunity to make an act of faith in Jesus and to enter into his family, his Body, his Church – whose membership would last forever. Jesus ascended as he said he would, and they went out as they were told to do! And because they preached – we have the faith today!

Thank you God for favoring us and blessing us and filling us with the light of life: JESUS CHRIST WHO IS LORD FOREVER and EVER!

Forever we will sing the goodness of the Lord.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Homily – 04-24-2008 – Fifth Week of Easter Thursday

We have two very beautiful readings for Mass today.

In the gospel passage Jesus is telling his disciples – all of them – apostles, their successors, priest and deacon helpers and indeed all of the faithful flock TO REMIAN IN HIS LOVE by KEEPING THE COMMANDMENTS.

Etched in stone in large letters across the front of the very beautiful Romanesque Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond, Virginia are the words: IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS.

Jesus' commandment is not a burdensome commandment! It is an amazing invitation into the very life of God as he is in himself. God is a community of Three Persons who eternally love each other in a dynamic and ever-self-giving way! This is what love is: self-donation, participating in the very nature, life and love of God himself. But we must remember that love always involves not only self-dontation, but self-sacrifice. Unless the love involves generous measures of suffering and sorrow – then it is not really love – it is not really balanced. Love has joy, love has sorrow; love has pleasure, love has pain; love has reward, love has loss.

The ultimate goal, however, is that this all dissolve one day into one never-ending experience of the FULLNESS OF JOY AND HAPPINESS – the FULLNESS OF BEATITUDE – when sorrow, pain and loss are destroyed forever! And it is this promise, it is this message that is Jesus' most valuable gift to us! LIVE IN MY LOVE, REMAIN IN MY LOVE – my self-sacrificial love – AND YOUR JOY WILL BE COMPLETE!

In the first reading we see Peter, deeply moved and filled with the Holy Spirit addressing the First Council of the Church in Rome – he, with Paul and the other apostles and presbyters and faithful members of the flock are discussing whether Gentiles first have to become Jews (be circumcised) if only briefly before they could become Christians, as salvation is supposed to be from the Jews.

Peter here states that the Holy Spirit has already fallen upon them thanks to the word of God that has come to them from preaching and teaching; and it seems obvious that they too have been chosen by God to share directly in all the merits of Christ's sorrowful death and glorious resurrection and gift of the Spirit. Peter then, with Paul, who brought the problem to Rome from Antioch casts his vote in favor of bypassing the intermediary step of circumcision for the Gentiles. After hearing recommendations from Paul and the other Apostles, they vote on it after prayerful consideration – and the Holy Spirit makes the Father's will known - and it is proclaimed through the mouth of Peter the head of the Church. This is the very birth of the magisterial teaching authority of the Church – and the charism of infallibility in matters of faith and morals.

To this day the magisterium helps to define what is truly within the parameters of living within the love of God, and remaining in him! We are so fortunate that God has provided a way on earth for people to be absolutely sure of something – especially when that something has to do with where we will spend eternity!

Let us with the apostles Peter and Paul proclaim God's marvelous deeds to all we meet this day – and to everyone everywhere!

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Homily – 04-23-2008 – Fifth Week of Easter Wednesday

Our readings for Mass today are about the expected fruit that comes from belonging to Christ. The readings speak of two kinds of fruit. The fruit of having full confidence in the truth that comes from the presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church as it functions to proclaim and defend what are matters of faith and morals to the faithful. And the fruit of remaining always attached to the source of, not only truth, but all life and nourishment: the vine which is Christ, the vine which is his Body, the vine which is his Church.

In the first reading we see that when a matter arose as to the route that was to be taken by Gentiles to become Christians - did they first have to be circumcised - did they first have to become Jewish in order to become Christian? or could they become Christians without the intermediary step. Since salvation was to come from the Jews, this was a valid question.

In order to seek the truth of the matter – Paul and Barnabas went to Rome to confer with the apostles and presbyters there – but especially Peter the head of the Apostles – made so by Jesus himself. It was actually the first Council of the Church. It is called the Council of Jerusalem. And it set the precedent for how matters of the faith and morals were to be discussed, debated, discerned and finally promulgated – by the action of the Holy Spirit working through the entire group – and officially proclaimed through the mouth of Peter and his successors.

The Second Vatican Council in our own lifetime was the latest example of such a council.

To keep faith alive, to keep morality current it was the responsibility of each branch on the vine of Christ to actively use the gift of the Spirit that each had received to discuss, debate, discern what immediate course of action should be taken on any given day, at any given hour. We, as Baptized and Confirmed and Ordained Christians have our duties to perform in building up the Body of Christ – each according to his or her own state in life and vocation. We need to discover them and do them fully, joyfully!

Regardless of what form these duties may take, if we remain - by prayer, by participation in the sacraments, by acts of charity towards our neighbor – in God's love, Jesus and his Father will reside and remain in us – and we will bear much fruit!

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you – by this is my Father glorified that you bear much fruit and remain my disciples!

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Homily – 04-22-2008 – Fifth Week of Easter Tuesday

In the gospel passage today – which is taken from the Priestly Prayer of Jesus - which he made after the Last Supper, before he went into the Garden of Gethsemane (to begin the intense dramatization of his love for us by his salvific death and subsequent resurrection) – Jesus gives and leaves his own peace to the disciples (his Apostles) to comfort them and to later be among the most important things that they could offer the faithful flock that would be attracted to the person of the Risen Jesus.

But he tells them that his peace is not like worldly peace, but a peace that reaches deep into the heart and soul of a person, a peace that is the reality of God himself, a peace that can be undisturbed come what may in the circumstances of life.

He then refers to his "going away" and his "coming back" – which can refer both to his being taken away for Crucifixion, and then his return by Resurrection – but it can also be referring to his going away at his Ascension and his coming back (in part by the presence of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, but assuredly at his coming back) at the end of time.

Then Jesus tells them that the prince of this world – the devil will arrive soon to deliver him to physical death, but not to worry, as such a devil has no real power over him – and that Jesus is simply, as always, doing only and solely what his Father in heaven wants him to do.

Christ had to suffer and to rise from the dead, and so enter into his glory. This is the message that Paul and Barnabas are taking into the Gentile territories in our first readings as of later. We see them proclaiming Christ Crucified and Risen. We see them forming communities of the faithful and appointing presbyters (priests) to minister to them. We see them doing exactly what Christ Jesus commanded them to do – and with his power, with his strength, with accompanying signs and wonders – great inroads are made in bringing the Kingdom of God to all the world.

Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom. We are your friends, O Lord, may we do our part today!

Monday, April 21, 2008

Homily – 04-21-2008 – St. Anselm

Today we celebrate the Feast of St. Anselm, bishop and doctor of the Church. St. Anselm was born in Aosta in Piedmont in 1033. He entered the Benedictine Order at the monastery of Bec in France. While he quickly progressed in the spiritual life, he taught theology to his fellow students. He went to England where he was appointed archbishop of Canterbury. He fought vigorously for the freedom of the Church, and for this he was twice exiled. He has achieved fame for his writings, especially those on mystical theology. His most famous definition is that of theology itself: calling it "faith which seeks understanding." He died in 1109.

The first reading today is all about the study of God. Paul exhorts the Ephesians to come to know the full breadth and height and depth of the love of Christ which begins in knowledge of him but surpasses it in the experience of love with him. Knowledge alone has not saved us; but the love of Christ has indeed saved us and continues to save us at every moment.

In tasting love – which begins in knowledge – we taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

In the gospel passage Jesus puts it another way: it is not only those who have memorized the words of the gospel that will be saved – but only those who have put them into practice who will be saved. Crying Lord, Lord we knew you – will get the crier nowhere on the Last Day. But rather those who put the words of God into practice will be welcomed into the Kingdom forever. They will be like people who built the houses of their spiritual lives on rock – which the storms of life could not destroy – nor even the experience of physical death! Happy the people who listen to the word of God and put it into practice!

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Homily – 04-20-2008 – Fifth Sunday of Easter

Last week was Good Shepherd Sunday. Just as Jesus invites us to trust in him, the One, True and Authentic Good Shepherd, he also asks us to trust in the shepherds he places over us. Today Jesus restates the idea using the concept of himself as the Way, the Truth and the Life.

The shepherd leads the flock along the right path – Jesus is the path;

the shepherd speaks words of truth to the sheep both in season and out of season – Jesus is the truth spoken; the shepherd provides life, food, nourishment for the sheep – Jesus provides eternal life for those who believe in him.

In the administration of the flock Jesus chose men to succeed Peter and the Apostles: these are the Pope and the bishops who have come down to us to the present day. They are Jesus' best friends and trusted co-workers. Priests of the second order help them in their work. Today in our first reading we see that to give the priests the opportunity to have more time to spend in prayer and in ministering the word of God, the first deacons were chosen and ordained by the apostles in a ministry of service: direct service to the bishop, and secondarily to the helper priests. This holy order has always been a part of Church history from that very day.

It is interesting to note the emphasis that the early priests of the Church made concerning their ministry: knowing that prayer was indispensible to their own holiness as shepherd/leaders – and also prayer on behalf of the Church of God was an essential part of their job. Ministering the word, as they had been mandated by Christ to do: to preach – teach – and baptize all nations – was then and ought to be today a priority for any and every bishop and priest in the Church. And any way deacons and other lay ministers can help them do their jobs effectively and joyfully ought to be appreciated and employed.

Before Christians can continue on their life-long journey of practicing more deeply their faith, and growing in holiness each and every day – and before those outside the faith can have any inkling of wanting to investigate the possibility of joining the ranks of Christians: they first have to hear the Gospel – hear the life, teachings and salvific events of the life of Jesus and the formation of the Church for our spiritual welfare until the end of time! Faith, then, follows upon proclamation of this Good News – using the intellect to stir the soul into a desire to make a leap into the amazing unknown of the mystery of God – which can transform one's life – now and forever! Faith is a gift from God the Father – and it is a gift he offers everyone – all it takes is a simple response, for which we all can pray for our selves, or for others.

Because of our baptism into Christ we can come to him – a living stone like he himself is – and become part of the spiritual edifice which is the Church – where we with him can make spiritual offerings to God the Father, through him who made the one, ultimate physical sacrifice in his own blood, once and for all of us! This is an amazing thing. We are all part of the priesthood of Christ because of our baptism. And each of us carries out that priesthood in a special way, unique to our vocation in life – whether as a layperson, a deacon, a priest or a bishop.

The Lord is our Shepherd, and he wants to provide for all our needs! May we this day continue to trust him to keep his promise of giving us life in abundance – both here, and hereafter!

Amen.    


 


 

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Homily – 04-19-2008 – Fourth Week of Easter Saturday

As Paul and Barnabas are preaching now to the Gentiles, as we hear in our first reading today, the Jews become jealous and angry and contradict what they are saying to the people. But Paul boldly stands and addresses them and tells them that "it was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first, but since you reject it and condemn yourselves as unworthy of eternal life, we turn now to the Gentiles."

The Gentiles were "delighted to hear this and they glorified the word of the Lord, and all who were destined for eternal life came to believe, and the word of the Lord continued to spread through the whole region." Paul and Barnabas "continued on their journey and the disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit."

In the gospel passage Jesus – the Light of the whole world – the one Paul and Barnabas was preaching about – is still trying to have his disciples make the connection between him and his Father - between him, the one they could see; and his Father, who is in heaven, whom they could not see. Having them know, understand and believe this was very important to Jesus – because the Father was greater than he – and he came to earth to do the Father's work. If he did not get this point across, then his hearers would ultimately not understand anything that he was doing.

Also, since Jesus is doing his Father's works, those whom Jesus will send need to know that they are not only doing Jesus' work, but his Father's work as well – because the Father and his will, will always be in charge.

And the added bonus is that "whatever you ask – in the Holy Spirit – in Jesus' name will be done" – for those who ask God's will to be discerned and empowered by the Holy Spirit cannot be denied!

This day let us rejoice and be glad that because of Jesus we can know the Father; and because of the Holy Spirit we can have all of our prayers answered!

Friday, April 18, 2008

Homily – 04-17-2008 – Fourth Week of Easter Friday

In our first reading today we see a continuation of St. Paul's journey among the Jewish people – his own people – fellow members of the family in faith of Abraham – and all others who are God fearing. Paul is trying his best to convince them that Jesus of Nazareth is truly the long-awaited Messiah of their people – and that in him all of the prophecies have been fulfilled – especially about his death and resurrection.

Jesus did what he came to do – he kept his Father's promise to show mercy to his people – to forgive their sins – and to raise them up on the Last Day.

Jesus is Son of God, Most High. And we who are baptized are also sons and daughters of God through Jesus: Lord, Messiah and Savior.

In the gospel passage Jesus tells his disciples to not let their hearts be troubled at any of the events that they see being fulfilled in him. He commends them on their faith in his Father; and he asks for faith in himself as well. And he assures them that when he departs from them he will be doing so to prepare a place in heaven, in his Father's Kingdom for them: so that at the end of their individual journeys through life – they will have a place awaiting them. He tells them that they know how to reach him at the end of the line.

To this they reply: We don't know where you are going! How can we know the way!

To which Jesus replies – probably in a kind of exasperated tone – "After all this time that I have been with you – you still do not truly understand me: I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH ABOUT THE WAY, AND THE LIFE ABOUT THE TRUTH!

The Father wants you – his adopted children with him in his Kingdom – but you can't get there except through me – except by believing in me – except by living the way of life that I have proposed to you and empowered you to live.

We too are God's sons and daughters! Let us go through Jesus to get to the Father – let us believe – let us live forever in our Father's house!

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Homily – 04-17-2008 – Fourth Week of Easter Thursday

In the first reading today St. Paul tries to convince the Jewish people in the towns that he visited, first of all, that Jesus of Nazareth – the one who their people handed over to be put to death by crucifixion – was indeed the long awaited Messiah.

He traces God's plan of salvation as it came from Abraham, through Moses, then to Samuel, and then Saul, and then David: from whose line would come a king who would rule over all kings – and who would be finally hearalded by a humble but powerful prophet, the last of the line of prophets: John, the Baptizer. There is no doubt this Jesus fit the line of descendancy, and he fulfills all the prophecies ever made about him. Therefore Paul is pleading with his listeners' logic as well as inviting them to the beginnings of real faith.

In the gospel passage, Jesus, himself, the true Messiah, and Teacher, and Lord relates to his apostles after washing their feet at the Last Supper the exact nature who and what he is. He is sent from God – as Servant – as Savior. And any who would be chosen to carry on his work must have the same attitude: the attitude of humble service – as the Savior himself carries on his work through them. Just as John knew that he was not the Christ; so too bishops and priests today – even the Holy Father – must realize that they are not the Christ: only his humble and lowly servants. We are blessed to have a Pope who seems to be aware of this, as are most bishops in our country.

Let us remember today what Jesus says: that when we receive and welcome him and his word, we receive and welcome his Father. He is very insistent that we get this connection. And so when we receive and welcome the Holy Father, bishops and priests – we receive and welcome both Jesus and his Father! And they are very pleased with us! And they can do great things in and through all of us!

Forever we will sing the goodness of the Lord.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Homily – 04-16-2008 – Fourth Week of Easter Wednesday

In our first reading today we see Barnabas and Saul chosen by the Holy Spirit to go and do the work to which they have been called: hands were laid on them: they were "ordained" – and sent to Seleucia and to Cyprus and Salamis to proclaim the word of God in the Jewish synagogues.

What a joy it must have been both for them and for their hearers to be a part of the process of bringing the living, vibrant, essential word of God to those who lived in darkness. They were bringing Jesus the Light of the World to them!

In the gospel passage, Jesus says clearly and plainly that he is the light of the world – so that everyone who believes in him might not remain in darkness. That's all it takes: a simple act of belief in him! But how difficult that simple leap is for some! Belief in Jesus, belief in the Father, belief in the working of the Holy Spirit means that we are not in charge – at all! And, especially, we, as Americans do not like that concept or feeling at all. We are a "take charge" kind of people! And nothing could be more detrimental to our happiness on earth and our place in eternity than clinging to this false notion.

It is only when we let it be – let it be in us according to God's will – in every circumstance, at every hour of the day and night – that the dawn begins to break – faith begins to grow – and we begin to see the true Light in our life which is the Risen Jesus!

And Jesus tells us so wonderfully again today that we get a two for one deal: when we see and hear him, we see and hear his Father! The Father and he are one: you just can't get one without the other! This is amazing news! It is the Father's will that is most important. And Jesus tells us that it is his Father's will that we have eternal life as a result of our belief in himself, Jesus.

May we cooperate today in our own redemption by making an act of will to will what God wants for us, to live by the light he wants to provide for us, to accept his gift of eternal life at the Last Day!

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Homily – 04-15-2008 – Fourth Week of Easter Tuesday

Our readings today are about the spoken word and the voice that powers it. It was the hearing of words, spoken in Greek, about Jesus, by already converted Greek Jews, deep in their own territory that led many of them to be converted to Jesus and to the way of life that was springing up emanating from him. Hearing about Jesus in their own native land helped them to feel comfortable enough to trust in the voices they were hearing.

Barnabas went from Jerusalem to Antioch to witness this phenomenon and rejoiced when he saw what the grace of God was doing and he encouraged them all of remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart. Then, he invited Saul of Tarsus to come and join him there in Antioch and to experience what the power of Jesus and his Spirit were all about. They both met with the community at Antioch for a whole year and it was there that the entire group started to be called "Christians" for the first time. Christians were those who "listened to the voice of Jesus" and followed him wherever he went!

In the gospel passage Jesus likens himself to a shepherd whose voice and words are very important to the flock under his care. A shepherd and a flock are basically one unit. The shepherd's greatest tool with the flock is his voice, his words; the greatest comfort for the sheep is the sound of their shepherd's voice. They will follow their own shepherd, but run away from shepherds with strange voices. Jesus reminds us all today, the sheep of his flock, that when they hear his voice and his words, they also hear the voice and words of his Father in heaven, who he also gives to us as our Father! Jesus never stops identifying himself with his Father. When we see Jesus we see the Father, as well.

We are fortunate in our native land today to anticipate the arrival, in a few hours, of the Vicar of Christ for us at this particular time in Catholic Church history,– Pope Benedict XVI. He stands as a direct representation of Jesus, Good Shepherd, and when we hear his voice – even though it may be dressed in a classical Bavarian accent - we ought to find comfort, encouragement and hope! And the same analogy holds true as with Jesus himself – he who looks upon the face of the Holy Father is also looking upon the face of God the Father – absolutely, surely and without a doubt.

Whether we agree or disagree with many of his policies and practices – there is the supreme guarantee that what he says - in the preordained channels of communication originating in God himself and protected by the power of the Holy Spirit – is true and beneficial for the whole Church at this particular time on this particular day. We owe him our respect, loyalty and devotion as we would give it Christ himself.

May all of God's sheep – both those in the fold and those on the fringes – and those who have wandered away – hear the voice of the Holy Father this week – and may something he says or does encourage, strengthen, affirm, heal and even convert any who need these things.

All you nations, praise the Lord! Alleluia!


 


 

Monday, April 14, 2008

Homily – 04-14-2008 – Fourth Week of Easter Monday

We have two important readings today at Mass: the first reading is how the Gentiles are now to be included in those who are to be saved by the words and deeds of Jesus; the gospel is about how Jesus lays down his life for those who follow him, hear his voice and believe in him – as a good shepherd would lay down his life for his sheep. The gospel passage also refers to other sheep who do not belong to the fold – but what are invited to do so – who are invited to listen to his voice, follow his lead and join the one flock where there is one shepherd.

While it is true that salvation primarily was to be for God's chosen people – the plan changed when these people rejected God's gift to them – Jesus and the Holy Spirit – and wanted to have nothing to do with them. They were satisfied to wallow in the darkness of their lives, the darkness of their sins. So, God said: "Fine! Go right ahead! Have it your way! But never say you were not warned, when the Last Day comes and you will be judged on the decisions you made in your lifetime."

All of the fruits, then, of salvation, were offered to the Gentiles – the Greeks, those who were not originally supposed to be included. Peter, in the first reading, gets instruction straight from God in a vision, in this regard – when
God basically tells him that he, God, is in charge and he can make anything clean that he wants to make clean – and that Peter has the authority on earth to bring into the Church whoever God wants brought into the Church. And so it was! And it was wonderful. Any who thirst for God can be satisfied now!

In the gospel passage Jesus assures the flock that he is completely devoted to them and that they can rely on him, they can listen attentively to his voice and be led in the right direction always – without fail. He not only would – but did – give his life for them – they are of such import and value to him and his Father.

In addition, Jesus is also concerned about wandering and stray and black sheep! They too are meant to belong to the one fold – having him as their leader and guide. We still pray today for the sheep who are apart from the one true flock – we pray that they be open to the Holy Spirit's promptings to bring them home where they belong. Whatever the reason for their separateness is no match for the grace and power of God's love to unite into one his family! We pray for union and peace among all men – especially this week as the Vicar of Christ – the Successor of Saint Peter – visits our country. It is his responsibility as Chief Shepherd in our time, as much as it was Jesus', as much as it was Peter's to obey God's will of doing all they could to promote pure, healthy and undisturbed family life in the Kingdom of God!

Jesus is the good shepherd! He knows and loves his sheep; and the true sheep of his flock knows and loves him! What joy in life comes from such an intimate relationship!

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Homily – 04-13-2008 – Fourth Sunday of Easter – Good Shepherd Sunday

Two weeks ago today we celebrated Divine Mercy Sunday – as the conclusion of the weeklong celebration of Easter Day! It was a fitting summary of the preceding ten days which saw the redeeming death for us and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ – Word-of-God-Made-Flesh – so that we could be freed from our sins, and free to enter the gates of heaven and into eternal life when we die.

The application of the mercy of God is now available to all – and it is centered in Jesus, the great distributor of that mercy, the distributor of those graces, the distributor of that newness of life! We said on that day that if we could live our entire lives motivated by the phrase found on the Divine Mercy Image given to us by Jesus himself: "Jesus, I trust in you!" we would be given mercy ourselves throughout our lives – in great abundance – as we showed mercy to others - and we could also apply it to others who are also in need of God's healing, forgiving, restoring mercy!

And so the message two weeks ago was TRUST IN JESUS! Today, the message is TRUST IN THE SHEPHERDS he places over the flock of the Church. Today is Good Shepherd Sunday. It is also World Vocation Day – as we pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

Pope John Paul II – in his encyclical "Pastores dabo vobis!" i.e. "I will give you shepherds," quotes the promise of God to always provide qualified candidates for shepherd roles in his Church. Yet, knowing that these shepherds are taken from among weak human beings, always, he has given the dictate as well to "do as they say" and not necessarily as they do! Even Jesus said this to the Jewish people who questioned the authenticity of their leadership personnel! The scribes and Pharisees loved to make a great show of themselves and to lord their position over their subjects – and they basically didn't have a real clue as to the real substance of their own religion - and so Jesus says: do as they say because what they say comes from God, but do not follow their example!

I think it would be safe to say that all shepherds are imperfect, just as you are imperfect. They are sinful, as you are sinful. They are imperfect and sinful as I am imperfect and sinful! But: the more they, the more I, try to give themselves / myself totally to Jesus and his Father who are the True Shepherds, the more the Father, Jesus and the Spirit can work through them / me to shepherd the flock, to shepherd you – rightly and gently; knowledgably and safely! And you can have every confidence that you are getting the "real deal" straight from God through them. Remember, the efficacy of any sacrament, especially Eucharist, does not depend upon the holiness or the current relationship that the priest at the altar has with God. The light of God's grace cannot be dimmed at all even by a darkened pane of glass that it shines through.

This is good news! The graces and mercy of God will always be available for members of the family of God in the Church – with full force and with full effect. And God will see to it that there are enough priests to do his work! But, as the People of God, know that you have a responsibility to be an instrument in the true vocation of a person for priestly service – if you feel God moving you to do so. This means that if you know of young man of high school, college age or even older – who you think would make a good priest – simply telling him so might spark a true vocation. It also means that a parent of a young man of any age who talks of priestly service to the Church should encourage them to explore their feelings and their thoughts – especially by having them talk with someone who had similar thoughts and feelings in his early life: a priest who loves his vocation – a priest who loves the Church – a priest who loves Jesus! This is how it – a vocation: God's calling, works!

The Lord is our shepherd; we shall not want – for anything – any of us – if WE TRUST IN HIM completely, totally and with all our hearts – and then act like we really do!

Saturday, April 12, 2008

Homily – 04-12-2008 – Third Week of Easter Saturday

A very important phrase in the gospel passage today is Peter's response to Jesus: We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of Israel.

Sometimes the process of coming to believe in Jesus is a quick one, sometimes a slow one – but, it is essential that it be a real one, and a true one. Life just does not, and can not make sense apart from Jesus. Material life is vitally connected to spiritual life and both are joined and explained by Jesus in a very convincing way for those who allow the Holy Spirit to work in them to open their minds and hearts. Otherwise nothing makes sense and following Jesus around is pointless. And so, many left him.

In the first reading today from the Acts of the Apostles we see how being convinced about the real power and presence of Jesus in his Church brought with it great signs and wonders: healing and raising from the dead. Because of these signs many came to believe not that the Apostles were wonder workers – but that the name of Jesus had real and effective power. Members of the Church were added because they wanted to be connected to this source of power and strength and protection! To this Way, Truth, Life!

The Apostles were sent out explicitly to preach, teach and perform signs. Many of them obviously did all three at the beginning. In our own day the preaching and teaching continues – but the performing of truly awesome signs has all but stopped. Why is that? Are not the bishops taking their complete mandate seriously? Perhaps, if more would, the chances would be greater for people not of the Church to want to investigate what it is all about!

Friday, April 11, 2008

Homily – 04-11-2008 – St. Stanislaus

Today we celebrate the feast of Saint Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr. Saint Stanislaus was born in the town of Szczepanow in Poland around the year 1030. He studied in Paris and was ordained to the priesthood. In 1071 he succeeded Bishop Lambert at Krakow. In this post he ruled as a good shepherd by helping the poor and reforming the clergy in his diocese. He courageously rebuked King Boleslaus who put him to death in 1097. He is patron saint of Kracow and all of Poland.

In the first reading today from the book of revelation we see how heaven rejoices at the death of the martyrs: love for life did not deter them from death – they gave their lives completely for the love of God and of his Christ. Now they await the great and glorious victory that awaits them on the Last Day when Jesus himself will avenge their deaths!

In the gospel passage Jesus tells us how he prayed for his apostles and future bishops of the world so that they may be protected from the evil one in the world. He did this because he gave to them a very important gift: a consecration in truth. He entrusted truth about God, truth about life, truth about afterlife with them – to be preached, to be taught and to be carried on by them and their successors. The world will hate them for it – Jesus forewarns them – for being guardians of such two-edged information – but they will be given the strength to endure what may come – even death – as Jesus himself endured death for delivering the same information and life!

May we pray for the spirit of martyrdom for ourselves. May we appreciate the great gift of truth that has been communicated to us by the Church – and may we be prepared even to give our lives to uphold and defend it!

And the Lord will deliver us from all of our fears! His word/truth brings joy!

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Homily – 04-10-2008 – Third Week of Easter Thursday

Our readings today are about teaching and learning. The most important teaching that a person can ever get is that which comes from God, the most important leaning a person can ever accomplish is that which has God as its object.

In the wake of all of the happenings in Jerusalem, the Ethiopian eunuch of the first reading is reading the Prophet Isaiah as he traveled along in his chariot. He traveled this way because he was a distinguished officer in Queen Candace's court. Philip was moved by the Holy Spirit to stop the chariot, get in and ask the young fellow what he was doing.

When he was told that it was Isaiah the Prophet that he was reading, Philip asked if he understood what he was reading. The young man gives a classic and powerful answer: How can I unless someone explains it to me? This is exactly the stance that we all must have when approaching the Scriptures (any of them) – how can I understand this unless someone explains it to me. The explaining is the job of Philip, his fellow apostles, their successors and helpers: the bishops and priests of today. And it includes others who are duly commissioned to explain things in their place.

The true and authentic teaching from God passes through this channel; and true learning about vitally important matters can be accomplished only by this same channel. God the Father wants us to know truth: all of it: all of him: after all, the whole truth is nothing but Jesus Christ – the Word and Truth of God made flesh! And so he provides for our education in matters of faith!

In the gospel passage Jesus explains to the people that no one can approach him unless the Father draw him, so to be raised up on the last day. This is an extremely important teaching. Jesus continues: Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from him comes to me! For the Father is teaching you here that I, Jesus, am the bread of life: I, Jesus, will bring you into the kingdom on the Last Day to share this, my, life: forever! Know this! and believe this!

But, of course, with this, as with any teaching: you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink! The act of learning must be a voluntary, free-will act or it is pointless.

May we this day learn more fully what it means for Jesus to be the bread of life come down from heaven – especially in the form of our Eucharistic Bread which we receive at this and every Mass - so that it can have a true effect in the way we live our life!

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Homily – 04-09-2008 – Third Week of Easter Wednesday

Again, this Wednesday we have two very powerful readings at Mass. The first reading is about the end of the honeymoon for the Church. The gospel passage is about the very will of the Father in plain words.

After a brief period of a honeymoon – or relaxation and rejoicing in the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit given to the Church on Pentecost – we now see that not everyone was happy with what was going on – especially those who never got what was going on in the first place – especially those who tried to kill off goodness itself as it went about doing what it has come from heaven to do: save their very spiritual lives! We are speaking of the scribes, the Pharisees, the elders – the religious leaders who continued in their stubbornness of heart and stiffness of neck – now to the maximum.

Chief among them was a very zealous young man named Saul – who literally went ranting, raving, cursing and fuming into the homes of Christians and dragged them out into the streets so they could be arrested and thrown in jail. The charge? not a valid one! For they did nothing wrong except to preach, proclaim and celebrate Jesus Christ as risen from the dead: a fact that only the still condemned by their own choice could resist.

It is interesting how Jesus will pick this very persecutor: Saul of Tarsus: to bring the Gospel message to the entire world! Yes, God is in charge!

Those disciples who were scattered by the persecution continued to preach and teach about Jesus – and many came to believe in him because of their efforts. The Apostle Philip was especially successful and many joined the family of Christians at his preaching and the signs and wonders he performed to prove that God is present and cares about his people!

In the gospel passage Jesus continues his "bread of life" explanation: which is the heart of what the Christians were being persecuted for! Jesus says that he himself is "bread of life!" Coming to him to be fed will merit you eternal life! And this, he tells us, is the whole object of his coming to earth, of his death and resurrection, of the sending of the Spirit – to tell us very plainly, loudly and clearly that his Father loves each and every one of us very, very much – and that he wants us to know that the path is now clear, the gates are now open, the choir is all rehearsed, the white garments are all washed and for those who believe in Jesus and eat his flesh and drink his blood - there is eternal life which will commence on the last day! For his flesh and blood are real food for the journey through life – which will end at the Marriage Feast of Heaven!

This is marvelous, exciting and truly GOOD NEWS! It is so good that the whole world needs to know about it!

Two thousand years later and there is still work to be done in this regard – and if we look carefully around at what is going on in the world – a lot of it!

But – the Holy Spirit is in charge of the Church. He always has been. He knows what he is doing and he will gather together into the one fold as many as possible until that Last Day dawns. Then, for those who have been faithful themselves, and who have helped as many others as they could – in their lifetime - become and remain faithful to Jesus – it will be a grand a glorious day!

We shall be raised up to live with God forever!

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Homily – 04-08-2008 – Third Week of Easter Tuesday

The first reading today is about the powerful martyrdom of St. Stephen – a deacon, who was the very first to give his life for the newly inaugurated Christian faith! Configuring his death to that of Christ: giving everything, by means of self-sacrificial love of God the Father and Jesus – Stephen prayed that Jesus receive his spirit; and that he would forgive his executioners.

What was so very interesting is that Saul – who was later chosen by Jesus to be one of the pillars of the Church – at this point, at this time, on this day concurred in the act of killing Stephen, by doing nothing to stop his death by stoning! Paul was still convinced that Jesus was not the true Messiah!

Stephen spoke the truth about how the elders and scribes opposed the Holy Spirit continually as did their ancestors: and just as their forefathers killed the prophets whom they did not understand nor believe – so too would they kill him – but God would be victorious in the end. Jesus, reigning from the right hand of God his Father, would be Lord of all and the object of praise for ever. It would just take some longer to come to realize this!

In the gospel passage Jesus clarifies the "bread from heaven" concept! Moses did not give the ancestors of the Jews bread from the sky to eat when they were physically hungry; it was God who gave it, out of his providential love and concern. This was but a type of the same God and Father giving the world the "bread of life" – his very Son, and his very body and blood – to be food for our souls for all ages – until the end of the world. What a gift!

Jesus and "bread of life" are then one and the same. And so Jesus says so wonderfully and beautifully: I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst. Forever!

Monday, April 7, 2008

Homily – 04-07-2008 – St. John Baptist de la Salle

Today's Saint, John Baptist de la Salle, was a 17th century French priest who founded the Christian Brothers teaching Order. He emphasized classroom teaching over individual instruction; and the use of the vernacular instead of Latin. He is the patron saint of teachers.

In the first reading today St. Paul exhorts Timothy to take as his norm that sound doctrine that he heard from him, in the faith and the love that are in Christ Jesus. He tells Timothy to guard this rich trust. This is indeed what St. John Baptist de la Salle did. He instilled this exhortation in his own brothers and teachers and encouraged all who teach the Catholic faith to do the same: including the faithful – especially parents, the first teachers of their children.

In the gospel passage we see what might have been St. John's motivation to dedicate his life to teaching youth: those who are like them – in their faith, in their trust, in their goodness, in their ability to be taught, in their ability to obey – are they who will be admitted to the Kingdom of heaven. And he recalls Jesus saying that when you welcome a child with love, you also welcome Jesus himself.

There is a great need in the world today for pure, authentic, genuine and loving Catholic education! May we do our part to pray for its success and to do what we can to educate any who come our way about the wonderful new life of grace that is available by association with Christ Jesus in his Church!

Blessed are they who delight in the law of the Lord.

Sunday, April 6, 2008

Homily – 04-06-2008 – Third Sunday of Easter

Our readings on this Third Sunday of Easter once again emphasize the enormity of the favor done for us by Jesus Christ – Word–of-God-Made-Flesh – during the events of Holy Week, and the immense ramifications of his actions.

St. Peter in the second reading talks about how believers in Jesus are now ransomed from their futile conduct – handed on by their ancestors. The futility involved here is not just any kind of futility. It was a tragic and pitiful kind of futility – begun in the Garden with Adam and Eve. There was no way that any human being could ever break the cycle of sin, break the power of darkness, break the pact with the devil. It was a deep, dark, hopeless futility!

But, in the first reading we hear St. Peter again, telling the people of Israel that God the Father sent them one who could break all those cycles, who could restore hope, would could eradicate the futility: Jesus the Nazarene whom they killed using lawless men. It was quite the reception and treatment that Jesus, Savior got!

Peter goes on, though, and says that any of them, or any since them, any of us – who believe that we are redeemed by the blood of Jesus, the innocent and spotless Lamb of God – and that God the Father did raise him from the dead –
have every reason to have hope based in God! Hope for a fruitful and happy life here, and an eternal life of blessed peace and joy in the next!

The gospel passage today is the beautiful story of how Jesus revealed himself to two disciples on the road to Emmaus – how he explained the Scriptures to them which referred to himself, and how he opened their eyes to his identity by breaking bread as he did the night before he died!

This is the exact structure of the Mass – this Mass and every Mass! First we break the Word of God in the Liturgy of the Word; then we break the Bread of God, in the Liturgy of the Eucharist! And how our hearts are meant to burn with the fire of the Holy Spirit each and every time we read or hear the Scriptures at Mass; and every time we partake of the Bread made Body- as Jesus himself once again – in the person of the celebrant – breaks bread for us!

He wants our joy to increase! He wants our hope to increase! He wants our peace to increase! And so he provided his Scriptural and Eucharistic Presence to remain with us until the end of time!

He wants to show us the path – that will lead us through the twists and turns of earthly life – ending with our crossing over the Bridge of his suffering, death and resurrection – into everlasting life!

Thank you, Risen Jesus, thank you so much! – for not only showing us the path, but for being the path, the truth and the life!

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Saturday, April 5, 2008

Homily – 04-05-2008 – St. Vincent Ferrer

Our saint for today, Vincent Ferrer was a 14th century Dominican who is the patron of builders because of his reputation for "building up" the Church of God by his preaching and teaching!

In the first reading, as St. Paul exhorted Timothy, so Vincent was charged as well - to "proclaim the word," being persistent, both when convenient and inconvenient. He was to convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching – even in the coming times when people will be stubborn and not listen to sound doctrine and the truth.

In the gospel passage Jesus reveals the reason to follow the teaching of his apostles – preachers and teachers – those who convey a message from him to them: YOU DO NOT KNOW THE DAY OR THE HOUR WHEN THE SON OF MAN WILL COME! Pay attention, then and be alert!

If God makes the effort to provide guides and preachers and teachers – the faithful ought to provide the effort to listen to, take to heart and put into practice what they hear – for their own good, for their own happiness, for their own salvation!

A true preacher, teacher and guide do not disseminate his own information – but only that which he receives from God, being God's humble and faithful servant!

Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will!

Friday, April 4, 2008

Homily – 04-04-2008 – St. Isidore of Seville

Today we celebrate the feast of St. Isidore of Seville, Spain – otherwise known as Isidore the Farmer, because of his humble origins. He lived in the 6th century and was one of several saints in one family: his two brothers and a sister were also saints. Though he found learning difficult at first, he later came to love learning and succeeded his brother Leander as archbishop of Seville where he presided for 37 years.

He wrote many practical works explaining the Trinity and the Incarnation of Jesus. He called together several councils in Spain and presided over them with wisdom. He died in 636.

Isidore tried to practice what he preached and taught. He knew that his ministry was a gift from God as did Paul in the first reading today. He knew that he was preaching Christ Jesus of whom he was a slave, and not himself. He knew he held the treasure of God in an earthen vessel – his own weak body and person – to show that its surpassing power comes from God and not from himself!

God was very pleased with this humble servant of his! The mouth of this just man murmured wisdom!

In the gospel passage Jesus says that you can tell the tree by its fruit. A good tree bears good fruit. The fact that Isidore was recognized as a doctor of the Church and a model for bishops – even by Pope John XXIII – demonstrates that from his loving and generous heart Isidore produced great deeds – good fruit - through the power of the Holy Spirit working through him.

May the shepherds of our day find in Isidore a model of humility, patience, love of learning and true charity!

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Homily – 04-03-2008 – Second Week of Easter Thursday

The word obedience appears several times in our readings today! It seems that no one likes to hear that word: obedience – which proves that it is a central issue in the story of salvation!

It was the dis-obedience of Adam that caused the Fall of Mankind; it was the voluntary obedience of Jesus – Word of God made Flesh – that reversed the curse – and brought about redemption!

In the gospel passage Jesus tells his disciples that just as he obeyed his Father's will in everything – and thus gained resurrection after death, so will those who obey him get the reward of eternal life! It is by obedience that we plug ourselves into the mysteries of Christ! It is by obedience that we access the grace and mercy that have been won for us! It is by obedience that we prove that we are adopted sons and daughters of God and brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ!

In the first reading today we see the Sanhedrin resisting such obedience to the maximum. Not only were they insistent that they would not obey God – and believe what had just happened in their midst for their own reconciliation with God; but they would not allow anyone else to listen to the teaching of the Apostles, to obey God, and thus to set themselves up in seeming opposition to them as leaders!

They were infuriated with the apostles who disobeyed them so that they could obey God – whose will always supercedes the will of men!

May our voluntary, generous and loving obedience to the will of God this day – be a sign that we are connected with Jesus who is the very obedience of God, be a sign that we appreciate the redemption that was accomplished for us, be a sign that we have our priorities straight: and God and service to others is paramount in our lives!

Taste and see how good the Lord is; blessed the man who takes refuge in him!

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Homily – 04-02-2008 – Second Week of Easter Wednesday

Our readings today show a wide range of feeling and emotion. There is anger, confusion, fear, frustration – but also tenderness, compassion, mercy, forgiveness, encouragement, hope - and again, misunderstanding, stubbornness and hardness of heart!

The first reading from the Acts of the Apostles continues with its aim and purpose of demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit in forming the Church of Christ! There was no stopping it! The Sanhedrin was angry that the Apostles were going against their orders – and preaching about the Christ-centered way of life – and about his death and resurrection! They were frustrated because they could not seem to stop these men. They were confused when they thought that they locked them up in jail, and there they were back in the public place preaching about the life of Jesus! They were afraid they were losing control of a bewildering situation!

In the gospel passage – on the other hand we hear mentioned what it is that the Apostles were preaching about: GOD THE FATHER SO LOVED THE WORLD THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life!

What was so threatening and hostile and fearful about that! The Father's tender loving mercy and compassion are immense, and they are for all people – not just including – but primarily for - his chosen people: the children of Israel!

Jesus came to be the hope and the encouragement, the forgiveness and the very redemption of all! So why did the Jewish leaders act the way they did? It is so plain to us! What is going on? They were right there – why wasn't it plain to them!

Well it was first of all, because their understanding of who the real Messiah ought to be was distorted from the outset! They were looking for a political hero, an earthly king to save them from the Romans and make their nation greater than all other nations! The real Messiah however came to be Savior, came to be a spiritual hero – a heavenly king – which he was to the maximum! And so, like their forefathers before them, most of these leaders along with the people they led could not recognize who it was that they were looking at!

Plus, in the second place, it takes FAITH – to really and truly see Jesus – back then, and today! God the Father offers faith to everyone (as I said on Sunday) – he gives us a spiritual ATM card – but we must actually use the faith – use the card – for it to work!

May we use our cards this day and walk in the light of Christ, as one who can see him, by faith! As one who can see each other as brothers and sisters! As one who can see that they condemn themselves who do not believe in Jesus! We or anyone else, not even Jesus, need condemn them!

Jesus did not come into the world to condemn it – it was already condemned: he came to save it! Thank you Jesus, thank you Father, for loving us so very much!

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Homily – 04-01-2008 – Second Week of Easter Tuesday

In our first reading today we see manifested the ideal of divestiture and renunciation – that is required for those who wish to follow Jesus – and really get to know him and his power in their lives.

It must be remembered though that the surrender of goods and the laying of treasure at the feet of the apostles was voluntary and related to need. It was in no way mandatory or systematic. It was not a requirement for membership in the early Christian community.

It must also be remembered that what is being stressed at this time was the power of the Holy Spirit working through the apostles to preach and make present the Risen Christ!

We, today, are invited to respond to the needs of the Church by supplying time, talent and treasure for the good of the operation of the community. This need always be done in a guilt-free way – by voluntary, free-will, from-the-heart donations. Participation should in no way be a measure of inclusion in the community! The Holy Spirit is still at work today – with power – through the successors of the apostles and their helpers – to preach and make present the Risen Christ! This is still the most important thing there is! And any way that we can help them, if only by constant and heartfelt prayer, is certainly most gratefully welcome and appreciated.

In the gospel passage we see the continuation of Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a well-known Pharisee, who came to Jesus at night, to learn more about him! Yesterday Jesus told him that he must be "born again" this time of "water and spirit." Nicodemus didn't quite grasp what Jesus was saying. Today Jesus continues his explanation:

Jesus says that becoming flesh is one thing (becoming a creature of God, among other creatures); but, becoming a child of God is quite another thing. Flesh can beget flesh; but only spirit can beget spirit.

And this Spirit is accessed, Jesus tells Nicodemus, by faith and trust in himself – who is the only true, genuine and reliable source of knowledge about the heavenly realm. He is the one who has come down from heaven.

The people of Israel are invited, Jesus intimates to Nicodemus, to turn toward him who is the New Torah, toward God as Savior! To turn toward and look up to the One who was lifted up from the earth for their redemption!

May we this day – thank God for the access that he has given us to the Father - so that we can count ourselves as his beloved children – begotten by the Holy Spirit in Holy Baptism and Confirmation; and may we keep turning constantly toward Jesus, Torah; Jesus, Savior; Jesus, Redeemer - as we look up at him who was crucified and pierced for our offenses!

The Son of Man must be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life!

Happy New Year 202

  A Happy New Year to you all! I hope and pray I am able to keep this blog up to date now that we are entering into the New Year! I would li...